UFC star Askham preparing for next fight

Tony Harber

Hemsworth mixed martial arts star Scott Askham is back in action this autumn in his third Ultimate Fighting Championship contest.

Askham will go over to Ireland for a middleweight fight against Poland’s Krzysztof Jotko at UFC Dublin on Saturday, October 24.

On a strong bill set for some terrific bouts Askham is expecting a tough challenge from an opponent who like himself has only tasted defeat once in his professional career.

Both men had their unbeaten records ended by Swedish martial artist Magnus Cedenblad last year, although it was in different style with Jotko forced to submit and Askham losing on points.

However, both have bounced back with Jotko outpointing Tor Troeng at UFC Fight Night: Nelson vs Story, in Stockholm and the Hemsworth man making it 1-1 in the UFC with a first round KO victory over Antonio Dos Santos Jr in his most recent outing at UFC Fight Night: Jędrzejczyk vs Penne, in Berlin.

Going into their meeting Askham boats a mixed martial arts record of 13 wins and one defeat while his opponent is slightly more experienced with 15 wins and one loss. Askham is one year older at 27.

The former two-time UCFC British champion and two time BAMMA champion says his training is going well for the Jotko fight and he is delighted to be on the great card at Dublin’s UFC Fight Night 76, which will also include a top of the bill lightweight fight between the USA’s Dustin “The Diamond” Poirier and Ireland’s Joseph Duffy.

On Twitter, Askham told his supporters he was “improving daily and will be smashing all PBs for UFC Dublin.”

On the fight coming up and on his opponent, Askham said: “He’s a bit of a grinder. He’s won most of his fights on decisions and has not got many finishes on his record.

“He’s well rounded and he’s coming in off a win, but hasn’t fought since October so it will be just over a year since he last fought.

“I’m looking to expose some holes in his game and looking to finish him. I’m looking forward to it.

“Everything’s going smooth ready to kick on with some solid weeks of training.

“I’m always learning and looking improve my game, but I like to have a solid 10 weeks of training before a fight, get that cardio up and make sure I’m ready early in all areas.